Obituaries Archive

Delbert J. Schulting

Delbert J. Schulting, 76, of Menominee, IL.

“I can’t go anywhere yet – they’ll never make it”, Delbert would joke about his adult children during his 4-year fight with cancer. On January 9, 2020, Delbert finally decided that his family was capable of handling life on their own and his battle with cancer ended peacefully at his home with family members at his side.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 16, 2020 at Nativity BVM Church at Menominee, IL, with Fr. Peter Snieg officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery.

Visitation will be from 3:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday and from 9:15 – 10:15 a.m. on Thursday at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, where the Parish and Holy Name Society Rosary will be recited at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Delbert began his life journey on April 5, 1943, son of his beloved parents Oswald “Peck” and Anne (Kass) Schulting.  He lived his entire life on his treasured family farm. Somehow he survived the early years of his life on the farm, despite the shenanigans between him and his brothers Gene and Jim and his best friend Dick Phillips.  He went to a one-room elementary school house – walking uphill both ways, occasionally through 12 feet of snow.  Later in high school, he met the love of his life, Elaine Pfohl, and married her on June 22, 1963. They were blessed with four children within 4 ½ years. Then six years later, just when they thought they were done with diapers and cribs…oops, number five was born.

Delbert spent his free time coaching his kids’ baseball and softball teams when they were young and never missed a high school football, basketball, baseball, or softball game. As his kids married and began their own families, you would see Delbert and Elaine at their grandkids’ youth and high school sporting events.

Delbert loved his family deeply. He hosted many family gatherings and fish frys and on one occasion “hosted” the fire department after grilling. He loved fishing, hunting, a good game of Euchre, Hilby’s Euchre Team, the Chicago Cubs, Chicago Bears, East Dubuque Warriors, John Deere tractors and equipment, and arguing with his “outlawed” in-law children about who was the favorite. His welcoming smile is forever etched into our hearts.

Delbert worked at John Deere Dubuque Works for 35 years. He was on the Menominee Township & Multi-Township Boards for 37 years, a member of the Menominee Fire Department, Knights of Columbus, and a retired UAW Member.

Delbert is preceded in death by his parents, his sister Joyce Ann; in-laws Leon & June Pfohl, brother-in-law Leonard Pfohl, and his hunting dogs Brandy 1, 2, 3, and Rambo.  Those left to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy are his wife of 56 years Elaine; five children – Paula Keck of Dubuque, IA; Randy (Kathy) of Oregon, WI; John (Lori) of Verona, WI; Donna (Sean) Quinn and Terry (Becky) all of East Dubuque, IL; 11 grandchildren that he cherished; Brandon, Andrew, Ethan, Ryne, Cody, Alyssa, Erin, Joey, Kyle, Alec, and Zachary; his brothers Gene (Lily) of Walnut Creek, CA, Jim (Rosie) of Black Earth, WI and his “we aren’t brothers” cousin Cy Schulting, along with numerous in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews; special friends Jerry Rojemann,  Dick Kaiser and Dan Ricke and all who were fortunate to meet him and become lifelong friends.

The family would like to extend our heartfelt thank you to all of his friends who made routine stops to spend time with Dad, particulary Delbert Belken who had an express pass through the front door of Delbert’s house, Diane who delivered him cookies, to our neighbors who pitched in to help ease the stress over the last few years, Dr. Dillon and the University of Iowa Oncology team, Dr. Schope, Dr. Hermann, and Dr. Tony of Dubuque Internal Medicine, all of his amazing nurses, especially Lori Hilby, and Hospice of Dubuque for their loving care.

In one last act of parental defiance, his children have plastered his photos all over social media.  He will live forever in our hearts and now cyberspace.

“When you die, that does not mean you lose to cancer.  You beat cancer by how you live, why you live and in the manner in which you live.” {Stuart Scott, ESPY’s 2014}

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com

Irene Ehrenkrantz

Irene Ehrenkrantz, age 90, of 3730 Pennsylvania Avenue, Dubuque, passed away January 10, 2020.  Respecting her wishes, a memorial gathering will be at a later date at the internment of her ashes in General William Doyle Cemetery, Wrightstown, New Jersey next to her spouse, Seymour Ehrenkrantz.  Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is caring for Irene and her family.

Irene was born January 23, 1929, in Hayange, (Moselle) France, the only daughter of Barbara Sophie (nee) Deutsch, and Leopold Hentges.  She graduated from College Moderne de Jeunes Filles, Thionville (Moselle) France, with the class of 1946. During WWII she had met Seymour Ehrenkrantz at Ott’s Café and from their first dance, they fell in love.  After the war, Seymour came back to France to make Irene his beautiful bride.  On October 29, 1946, in Florange (Moselle) France, they married.  Together they raised two children, Susan and Marc, in Haddon Heights, NJ and celebrated fifty-six happy years of marriage.  Seymour passed away after a long illness on February 9, 2002 in Camden, New Jersey.

Irene was a caring person who, in her younger years, enjoyed folk dancing and tennis.  She knitted, embroidered, quilted, crocheted and sewed with exceptional skill.  Neighborhood children came over to ask for help with their projects.  In later years she took very good care of our father, and for that we are forever grateful.

Irene will be dearly missed by her two children, Susan (Raymond Wilson), of Dubuque, Iowa, Marc (Susan Kuzma) Ehrenkrantz, of Hillsborough, N. J.;  her sister-in-law, Jenny Ehrenkrantz, (Hancocks Bridge, NJ); many nieces and nephews; and cousins, in France, Irene Le Clerc, Marie Jeanne Hocquard, Madeleine Deutsch; Dubuque friends, Ann Ernst and Stella Psihoyos; lifelong friends, Madeleine Perl, Elisabeth Poire, (in France),  and Lucille Abramowitz (Westmont, NJ) and Simone Avitello (Westbury Heights, NJ).

Irene is preceded in death by her husband; both parents; her parents-in-law, Max and Tillie Ehrenkrantz; her other in-laws Morris and Robin Satinsky, Leon and Bobby Mircoff, Ted Ehrenkrantz; cousins, Joseph (“Pepel”) Deutsch,  Claude Le Clerc, and Mick Hocquard.

Sincere thanks and appreciation are in order to her Sunset Park Place “family” and staff (especially Jerry, Kathy, Erica, and Sue) where she felt at home in her last years; and to Drs. Brian Moran and Mark Hermann for their medical care and compassionate expertise.  Thanks also go to Hospice of Dubuque and the additional supportive help from Gladys, Landi, Nanci, Tina, Traci, and Vicky.  Without this “team effort” Irene could not have managed to live her last days in the comfort of her home. In lieu of flowers or other memorials, please give to the charity of your choice.

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Irene’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Agnes Nadermann

Agnes “Ginger” Nadermann, 82, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away on January 8, 2020 at home surrounded by family.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. Monday, January 13th, 2020 at Holy Spirit Parish, Sacred Heart Church with Rev. Mark Kwenin officiating.  Burial will follow in Linwood Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, January 12th, 2020 at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Road where a wake service will be held at 3:45 p.m.

Agnes was born on March 21, 1937, in Dubuque, Iowa the daughter of Gregory and Mary Magdalena (Erdmann) Jacobsmeier. She married LaVerne “Jake” Nadermann on November 17, 1956 at St. Francis Xavier Basilica in Dyersville, Iowa. During their 35 years together, they raised 10 children.

Agnes enjoyed fishing, camping, and quilting. She especially enjoyed listening to her waterfall while tending to her flowers.

She is survived by her three daughters, Kathy (Mark Fishler) McCarthy, Becky (Ron Fishnick) Johnson, both of Dubuque and Cheryl (Bill Tekippe) Schick, of Sherrill, Iowa. Seven sons, Ken (Sona) Nadermann, of Waynesville, MO, Ron (Sue) Nadermann, Gerry Nadermann, Pat (Wendy Briggs) Nadermann, Bob (Nancy) Nadermann, Ricky (Deb) Nadermann, and Billy Nadermann all of Dubuque. Twenty-nine grandchildren and forty-five great grandchildren. Her sister Berniece Williamson, of Dubuque and her brother John (Judy) Jacobsmeier, of Waterloo; along with several brothers and sisters-in-law.

She was preceded in death by her husband LaVerne “Jake” Nadermann on January 2, 1992; her mother and father; two brothers Bernard and Joe; her grandson Matt McCarthy; son-in-law Tom McCarthy and several brothers and sisters-in-law.

In lieu of flowers an Agnes Nadermann memorial fund will be established.

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Hospice of Dubuque and 24-hour care for all the love and care of our mother. Also, a special thank you to her sister Berniece Williamson who cared for her the last couple months.

Laura A. Gerner

She attended grade school in North Buena Vista and her high school years were in Dubuque, Iowa, at Immaculate Conception High School. Laura then went on to two years of college at Arizona State College.She worked as a secretary to the President of May Seed Company in Ana, Illinois, for five years. Laura then returned to Dubuque in 1957 and continued to work as a secretary. She was a spirited woman who had great compassion for all animals. She was a homemaker and active member of St. Mary’s Church and the Church of the Resurrection. Laura spent many years as a foster grandparent at A.R.C. in Dubuque.

Those left to cherish Laura’s memory include

a sister,
Regina “Jean” Wortman, Iowa City, IA;

a sister-in-law,
Rita Gerner, Garber, IA;

her nieces, nephews and cousins.

Laura was preceded in death by
her parents; 3 brothers: Marcellus “Marc” (Viola) Gerner, Alphonse and Irven (Marcie) Gerner and 2 sisters: Aloysia “Alice” (Louis) Kasel, Colette “Cleo” (Cletus) Oyen and 2 brothers-in-law, Hugh Kotowske and George Wortman.

Laura’s family would like to thank her long-time care givers and Hospice of Dubuque for their kind and compassionate care of Laura.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among Laura’s favorite charities.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com

Frederick E. Finzel

Frederick E. “Fred” Finzel, age 56 of Dubuque, Iowa completed his earthly journey on January 8, 2020 at UnityPoint Health Finley Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. To celebrate Fred’s life, a private family service is being held. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Fred’s family.

Fred was born on May 21, 1963 in Dubuque, Iowa, a son to Leo F. and Leora J. (Becker) Finzel. Being born and raised in Dubuque, he quickly learned the value of being a part of a loving and generous family. After graduating high school, Fred served many years in the Army Reserves and another 2 years in the Navy. After his service was complete, Fred went on to be a diesel mechanic, but sadly, due to health issues arising, he soon found himself unable to complete his dream. He did find the ability to work at Farmland Foods for a few years, but eventually his disabilities became inevitably demanding on his daily life.

Thankfully, Fred didn’t allow his challenges to overcome his kind personality and witty sense of humor. He shared his naturally gifted artistic talents with his family and friends continually. Creating toy model figurines with his sons was always a favorite way to pass some quality time together, but an opportunity to play video games with them, or even to simply sit and sketch a few pictures freehand was also time together which was meant to be treasured. Fred was a very intelligent man who faced situations and solved problems head on; never forgetting to thank those who stood beside him along the way. We will miss Fred and his gentle soul moving forward, but are forever grateful for the 56 years we were able to spend with him.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Fred include,

his 2 sons,
Jerome Finzel, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Tyler Finzel, Bellevue, Iowa;

his siblings,
Rose (Gerald “Jerry”) Baguss, Maquoketa, Iowa,
Harold Finzel, Columbia, Tennessee,
Leo Finzel, Corpus Christi, Texas,
John Finzel, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Lorri (John) Jackson, Dubuque, Iowa;

along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends and neighbors.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Colleen Vogt.

Fred’s family would like to thank Dr. John Whalen, and the staff at Tri-State Dialysis, for all of their care of Fred. Also, the doctors, nurses and staff at Finley Hospital for all of their professional and compassionate care and support.

Online condolences may be shared with Fred’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Michael J. Pluemer

Michael J. “Mike” Pluemer, age 66 of Asbury, Iowa completed his earthly journey on January 8, 2020 at home, surrounded by his loving family.

To honor Mike’s life, a Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, January 19, 2020, from 12:00 noon until 3:00 p.m., in the Holiday Inn Grand Ballroom, 450 Main Street, Dubuque, Iowa. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Mike’s family.

Mike was born on June 18, 1953 in Dubuque, Iowa, a son to Lloyd and Mildred (Schiel) Pluemer. Thankfully, the values of family, friends, fellowship and hard work were immediately instilled within him. After graduating from Dubuque Senior High School in 1972, he would go on to devote over 30 years of his working career with John Deere Dubuque Works, before eventually retiring in 2008. He was united in marriage to his soul-mate, Linda Tindell, on May 18, 1991, and their union was blessed with 2 children. Mike and Linda are a shining example of what a loving couple can accomplish when they face the world together hand in hand. They both enjoyed traveling together and their honeymoon destination of Bermuda always remained Mike’s #1 choice, with Florida residing at a close 2^nd.

In his free-time, Mike found plenty of outlets to keep his mind and body occupied. Maintaining the most meticulous lawn in the neighborhood was continually a quest he strived to achieve. Golfing and softball also always found their way into his days; but an afternoon of fishing with the grandkids, or watching his Bears and Cardinals play could also suffice. And in line with being the true gentleman he was, Mike never relinquished his spirited sense of humor, even during his courageous battle with cancer. It’s impossible to imagine moving forward into a future without Mike’s daily physical presence bringing a little peace and stability into our world. We know that he is at peace from his earthly struggles now, but our broken hearts would give absolutely anything to have just one more day with the man who so naturally made everything ok. We miss him deeply, love him dearly and will forever treasure every memory he leaves behind until we meet again.

Those left behind to cherish the memory of Mike include,

his loving wife and companion of 38 years,
Linda Pluemer, Asbury, Iowa;

his 2 daughters,
Jennifer (Todd) Clothier, Salem Lake, Wisconsin, and Kelly Heiderschiet, Fort Dodge, Iowa,

his 4 grandchildren,
Brandon, Andrew, Carter and Jack;

his sister,
Lynn Pape, Rickardsville, Iowa;

his sisters and brothers-in-law,
Sharon Pluemer, Dubuque, Iowa,
Sandra Feehn, Dubuque, Iowa,
Diane (Don) Pettengill, Denver, Colorado,
Susan (Jim) Cheek, Denver, Colorado,
Tanya (Dave) Wilson, Dubuque, Iowa,
Laura Fischer, Dubuque, Iowa,
Sheila Pluemer, Dubuque, Iowa,
and Nancy Dolce, Stevens Point, Wisconsin;

along with countless nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and neighbors.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents; his twin sister, Patricia Pluemer in infancy; his brothers, Greg Pluemer, Gary Pluemer and Daniel Pluemer; his in-law’s, Harold and Marinette Tindell; and his brothers-in-law, Loren Fischer, Jim Feehn, Howard Dolce and Garry Pape.

In lieu of flowers, a Michael J. Pluemer memorial fund has been established which will be donated to cancer research in Mike’s name.

Mike’s family would like to thank Dr. Hermann, his nurse and staff, everyone at the Wendt Center and the Asbury Fire Department, along with the nurses and staff at Hospice of Dubuque (aka, the Green Team) for all of their wonderful care and compassionate support over the past few months. And a very special thank you to all of our family and friends, especially the Dream Team, for giving more than we could ask for and always trying to fulfill the difficult tasks of bringing a little peace and serenity into some very uncomfortable days!

Online condolences may be shared with Mike’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com

Rita M. McCann

Rita M. McCann, 88, of Dubuque, died Thursday, January 9, 2020, at the Unity Point Health-Finley Hospital in Dubuque.

Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM Friday, January 17, 2019, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, a prayer service will be held at 7:00 PM to conclude the visitation. The Mass of Christian Burial for Mrs. McCann will be 10:00 AM Saturday, January 18, 2019, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Rev. Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Rita was born June 7, 1931, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of James and Bertha (Simon) Hochberger. On November 6, 1954 she married John E. McCann in Dubuque.

Rita never met a stranger, she made friends everywhere she went. She enjoyed walking with Dolores, singing, dancing, and her Sunday afternoon movies with her life long friend, Babe. Rita loved her time volunteering at Finley Hospital, she was a volunteer at the hospital for 20+ years. Most importantly, Rita adored time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Left to cherish Rita’s memory, her son James (Donna) McCann of Dubuque, her daughter Joan ( Mike Hoskins) Vasquez also of Dubuque; 4 grandchildren Ryan (Krista) McCann, Katie McCann, Linnea (Jeff) Donovan and Christopher Rains; 10 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews

She was welcomed into heaven by her husband, John; brother, Butch Hochberger; sister, Rosemary Hoffman; and every friend she has already made in heaven.

Rita’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at Finley Hospital and Stonehill Care Center for their loving care of Rita

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Rita’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

John T. Peacock

John T. “Jack” Peacock, 86, of East Dubuque, IL, passed away Wednesday morning, January 8, 2020 at home, surrounded by his family.

Funeral services will be 7:30 p.m. Friday, January 10, 2020 at the Miller Funeral Home in East Dubuque, with Rev. Dianne Grace officiating. Burial will be at 10 a.m. Monday at the East Dubuque Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home, where members of the East Dubuque Fire Dept. will meet in a body at 6:00 p.m.

Jack was born on August 13, 1933 in East Dubuque, the son of Clarence and Bertha (VanSchaik) Peacock. He was united in married to Norma L. Ford on April 16, 1955 in Dubuque, IA. She preceded him in death on June 18, 2017.

Jack served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict from 1952 – 1956. He was formerly employed at the Dubuque Packing Company, a member of Local 150-A UFCW, and a retired member of the East Dubuque Volunteer Fire Dept.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, carving, westerns, but most of all spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Surviving are six children, John (Cindy) Peacock, Jr., Anthony (Tony) Peacock, Lisa (Dealson) Sweet, Shawn Oglesby, Gina Peacock and Michelle “Shelli” (Christopher) Lonergan; 20 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren and his sister, Judy Peacock.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Norma, three brothers, a grandchild John III, and a great-grandchild Daylin.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.millerfhed.com.©

Mark O. Burds

Mark O. “Red” Burds, age 84, of Dubuque, was called home peacefully at 9:24 a.m., on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, at Stonehill Care Center, surrounded by his loving family. To celebrate Red’s life, family and friends may visit from 9:00 a.m., until 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, January 11, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street. To honor Red’s life, funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Saturday, January 11, 2020, at Behr Funeral Home, 1491 Main Street, with Linda Frommelt officiating. Burial will be in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, where military honors will be accorded by the U.S. Army and the Dubuque Marine Corps League.

Red was born on December 29, 1935, in Epworth, Iowa, son of James and Mary (Downey) Burds.

Red grew up on the family farm in Worthington and was home-schooled for many years before graduating from St. Paul’s in Worthington in 1953. He began working at John Deere Dubuque Works shortly after graduation. Red entered the U.S. Army in 1958 and served as a carpenter and a boxer at Ft. Carson in Colorado until 1960, when he returned to John Deere. His boxing career continued after his service for many years with great success. “Rockin’ Red” was a Golden Glove boxer who was well-known for both his boxing and his coaching successes. Red coached at the Dubuque YMCA and the Dubuque Boys’ Club for much of his life.

Red married Darlene Chatfield on December 30, 1961 at Sacred Heart Church in Dubuque, and together they were blessed with 4 daughters. Rockin’ Red was also a prolific writer of prose and poetry throughout his life even setting some of his writings to music and recording them. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, especially his daughters and his grandchildren. Red could regularly be found dining with his “lady-friend”, Mary Ellen Quade, at the Moracco. We are saddened at the loss of such a loving, caring and creative man in our daily lives, but his legacy will be passed on for generations through his writings. Anyone who has enjoyed his works will have a smile on their face at the mere thought of his poems or his songs.

Those left to cherish Mark’s memory include

his children,
Becky (Guy) Hemenway, Peosta, IA,
Nancy Thomas, Dubuque, IA
and Kathy Allman, Peosta, IA;

his 4 grandchildren,
Lizzy & Bailey Hemenway, Miranda Thomas and Dan Allman;

his great-grandson, Theo;

his siblings,
Joan (Ed) Burds-Taylor, St. Genevieve, MO,
Jim Burds, Thornton, CO
and Donna Burds, St. Louis, MO;

a sister-in-law,
Suzanne Burds, Dubuque, IA;

his former wife,
Darlene Burds-Thiede, Peosta, IA.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Sandy “Ding-a-ling” Burds; a son-in-law, Darrell Allman; 2 brothers, Mike and Denis Burds; a sister, Therese Roling; a sister-in-law, Nonie Burds and his “Special lady-friend”, Mary Ellen Quade.

Red’s family would like to thank the staff of Stonehill Care Center and Hospice of Dubuque for all of their kind and caring support of Red and his family.

Memorials will be accepted by the family to be distributed among Red’s favorite charities.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.behrfuneralhome.com

Judith J. (McVay) Herber

Judith Jeanne (McVay) Herber, 79, of Dubuque, passed away peacefully in her sleep Tuesday, January 7, 2019.

Per her wishes there will be no services, but friends and family are encouraged to gather Sunday the 12th in the Community Room of the Diamond Senior Apartments, 1401 Wingate, Dubuque, IA. Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home and Cremation Service is caring for Judy and her family.

Judy was born Valentine’s Day in 1940. She married Peter Herber on May 19, 1962, and they were able to spend 58 loving years with each other. Together they had six children, 21 grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren.

Family was the most important and special thing to her, and she had nothing but love for every member. She had several occupations throughout her life, but the ones she treasured most were of wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. People who knew her will attest to her kindness, compassion, empathy, and love for everyone she met.

She leaves behind her loving husband Peter, her children, Timothy (Mitzi), Paula Hoftender (Steve), Terence (Jackie), Leanne, Daniel (Amber), and Peter (Dawn).

She is also survived by her siblings, Jim, Mike, John, Jeff, Kris, and Laure.

She was preceded in death by her parents, son-in-law Steve Hoftender, and two great-grandchildren who she lovingly called her “great-grandbaby angels”.

She touched many lives and will be greatly missed by all.

Judy’s family would like to thank the staff at the Unity Point Wound Clinic for the care that they provided to her.

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Judy’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Lester G. LaPage

Lester G. LaPage, 67, of Dubuque, Iowa passed away Tuesday, January 7, 2020 at home following a sudden illness.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 11, 2020, at Saint Peters Lutheran Church, 3200 Asbury Road, with Pastor Matthew Agee officiating. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Friday, January 10, 2020 and from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, at Saint Peters Lutheran. The Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory 2595 Rockdale Road is in Charge of arrangements.

Lester was born on October 10, 1952, in Dubuque, the son of Keith and Iva (Leubka) LaPage. He married the love of his life and high school sweetheart Diane Harry, on March 4, 1972 at Saint Matthews Church. He worked for Bodine Electric for 25 years until his retirement.

Lester was an avid bowler and a proud member of the 700 Club. He also had a passion for the outdoors especially hunting and fishing. The Chicago Cubs and Miami Dolphins were his teams and he was proud to watch the Superbowl and World Series wins by both.

He is survived by his loving wife Diane; three sons, Brian (Abbi) LaPage, of Dubuque, Christopher (Sara) LaPage, of Maquoketa, Jason (special friend Megan) LaPage, of Garnavillo IA; four grandchildren who he dearly loved: Chloe, Emelia, Anthony, Charlotte; two sisters Shirley (John) Adams, of Hobe Sound, FL, Candice (Robert) Hachmann, of Peosta; a brother Rick (Bernice) LaPage, of Huxley, IA, and many nieces, nephews and in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter Hope; a brother Randy; a sister Cindy and his mother and father-in-law John and Doris Harry.

In lieu of flowers a Lester LaPage memorial fund has been established.

Michael P. Kelly

Michael Patrick Kelly, 66, of Dubuque, peacefully passed away on Sunday, January 5, 2020, at his home.

Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM Thursday, January 9, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Mike will be 10:30 AM Friday, January 10, 2020, at Church of the Resurrection with Rev. Father Phil Gibbs as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Mike was born March 17, 1953 in Dubuque, the son of William and Irene Schulte Kelly. He was united in marriage to Rita K. Green on September 14, 1974 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dubuque.

Mike graduated from and played baseball at Indian Hills Community College in Centerville, IA. Mike worked at Kretschmer-Treadway, Republic Companies, and Portzen Construction until his recent retirement.

Mike was a wonderful and caring husband and father. He was also the proud grandfather to Kathryn, Deklyn, Elly, and Keegan. Mike’s greatest thrill was chasing his granddaughters around. He was the official scorekeeper and bench coach of the Asbury Pumas Softball Team and always had candy for his team when they came into the dugout.

Mike served on the NICC Building Trades Advisory Board and Asbury Building Commission.

Surviving are his wife Rita and their two children, Timothy (Elizabeth) Kelly and Christine (Jeff) Adams; one sister, Patricia (Michael) Lippert; four grandchildren, Kathryn, Deklyn, Elly, and Keegan; and three nieces and one nephew.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and grandfather, James Kelly.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Mike’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Daniel Esser, Sr.

Daniel “Dan” Esser Sr., 45, of Dubuque, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 1, 2020, at his home.

Visitation will be from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM Friday, January 10, 2020, at Hoffmann Schneider & Kitchen Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 3860 Asbury Road.

The Mass of Christian Burial for Dan will be 10:00 AM Saturday, January 11, 2020, at Holy Spirit Parish – Sacred Heart Catholic Church with Rev. Father Steven Garner as the Celebrant. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque.

Daniel was born February 20, 1974, in Dubuque, the son of Donald J. and Ava L. (Chalder) Esser.

Dan started working at Flexsteel in the cutting department the day after he graduated from Dubuque Senior High School and continued to worked there for more than 27 years. He was an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves, Iowa Hawkeyes, and the San Francisco 49ers.  He enjoyed watching and attending NASCAR races, Bobby Labonte was his favorite driver. Dan was the go to guy when his family needed help with electronics. He enjoyed tinkering with technology, fishing, and listening to Metallica. He also enjoyed bowling, even once bowling a perfect game.

Survivors include his parents Donald and Ava Esser of Dubuque; one son, Daniel “Dano” Esser, Jr.; two brothers, Andrew Esser and Matthew Esser of Dubuque, IA; one sister, Dawn (Chris) Cappetto of Hazel Green, WI; as well as several nieces, nephews, and friends

He is preceded in death by his grandparents.

A photo tribute can be viewed and condolences can be sent to the family by visiting Dan’s obituary at www.hskfhcares.com.

Kenneth A. Neuhaus

Kenneth A. Neuhaus, former Chief Deputy of the Dubuque County Sherriff’s office, passed away at age 91, on December 31, 2019 surrounded by family, at Bethany Home in Dubuque.

A mass of Christian Burial will be at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 11th, 2020 at the Church of the Nativity with Msgr. James Miller officiating. Military honors will immediately follow mass at the church by the American Legion Post #6 and the Iowa Army National Guard. Burial will be in Mount Calvary Cemetery at a later date. A visitation will be held on Friday, January 10, 2020 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Leonard Funeral Home & Crematory, 2595 Rockdale Rd. with honor guard provided by the Dubuque County Sherriff Department.

Kenneth was born on September 6, 1928, in Patch Grove, WI, to Edward and Leona (Oval) Neuhaus. Kenneth was a U.S. Army veteran and served in the Korean War from 1950 to 1952. He trained at the National Academy of Law Enforcement in Quantico, VA and served more than 30 years with the Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office in Dubuque, IA until his retirement as Chief Deputy.

On February 14, 1953 he married Mary Julia Dugan. They raised four sons, Ken Jr., Tom, Roger, and Gregory, and four daughters, Mary Lynn, Patricia, Catherine, and Paula.

Kenneth was a die-hard Cubs fan, a grass-roots go-getter, and a civic-minded leader. Active in his community, he served as an usher at Nativity Church in Dubuque for more than a decade, volunteered for the Dubuque County Democratic Party, was a member of the American Legion Post 6, and the Knights of Columbus Council 510. He was known for his generous spirit, dogged determination, and laughing before the punchline of his own jokes.

He is survived by his beloved wife Mary; eight children, Ken (Karen) Neuhaus, Mary Lynn (James Jarrard) Neuhaus, Patricia Harrison, Catherine (Dean “Moe”) Dolphin, Tom (Laurie) Neuhaus, Roger (Theresa) Neuhaus, Gregory (Chris Nardone) Neuhaus, and Paula Neuhaus. His brothers Donald (Eunice) and Gerald; and sister Nelda (Dennis) Bennett; eleven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his father Edward, his mother, Leona and brothers Lloyd, Edward Jr. “Bud,” and Roger, sisters Jeannette, Inez, Virginia, Audrey, Florence, and his four grandsons, Ryan, Taylor, Christopher, and Tyler Neuhaus, daughter-in-law Crystal (Henkes) Neuhaus, and son-in-law James Jenkins.

A Kenneth Neuhaus memorial fund has been established.

The Neuhaus family extends their gratitude to the nursing staff at Bethany Home, Dr. Matthew Kirkendall, and Hospice of Dubuque.

Clara Hinzmann

Clara Hinzmann, Kimberling City, MO, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adam Podnar, was born September 21, 1939 in Dubuque, Iowa and departed this life on January 4, 2020 at the age of 80.

Clara and her husband, Ron Hinzmann, lived in the area twenty-three years, moving here from Dubuque, Iowa.

Clara was preceded in death by her parents; two sons, Jeffrey Hinzmann and Kenny Hinzmann; daughter, Kimberly Babbin; two brothers, Robert Podnar and Alex Podnar; two sisters, Teresa McAvoy and Sandi Podnar and one grandson, Ronald Kinsell.

Survivors include: her husband Ronald (Ron) Hinzmann of sixty-three years of Kimberling City, MO; two sons, James Hinzmann and friend, Kari and Jerry Hinzmann; two brothers, Steve Podnar and wife, Jeannette and Adam Podnar Jr.; two sisters, Rosemary and Linda; nine grandchildren and ten great grandchildren and a host of other family and friends.

No service is planned at this time.  Arrangements are under the direction of Stumpff Funeral Home Kimberling City, MO.